Younis Khan, Misbah-ul-Haq lead Pakistan’s recovery on Day 1 of 1st Test against Sri Lanka

Younis Khan completed his 29th half-century in Test cricket and Misbah-ul-Haq‘s solid resistance helped Pakistan enjoy a fruitful second session against Sri Lanka on Day One of the opening Test at Galle. Pakistan were 140 for three after 53 overs at tea.

Younis slammed five fours and a six to reach 77 not out, and on the other end, Misbah is batting on 22 not out, having faced 87 balls. The Pakistan captain struck two boundaries in his knock.

The two seasoned batsmen revived Pakistan after they were reduced to 56 for three earlier before lunch, and have so far added 84 runs to lead their team’s recovery. While both Younis and Misbah were cautious not to give any scope to the Sri Lankan bowlers, there were close shouts for leg-before and a dropped catch that ensured their partnership remain intact.

Sri Lanka captain tried all his bowling options available to break this stubborn stand, but his efforts did not yield any result. Younis was declared out once again off Dilruwan Perera, but the Decision Review System (DRS) suggested that the batsman was safe.

Earlier in the day, Dhammika Prasad claimed two wickets and Rangana Herath one as Sri Lanka reduced Pakistan to 59 for three at lunch. Pakistan, back to the cricket field after a long gap of about six months, looked completely rusty in the first session as barring Azhar Ali, the other batsmen struggled against an inspired Sri Lankan attack.